Per USDA-APHIS, the 2024 HPA Final Rule implementation will be delayed until February 1, 2026. On Thursday, March 20, 2025, USDA-APHIS released a Public Inspection Document citing that on Friday, March 21, 2025, the rule will be delayed until 2026. The notice also announces their intent to collect public comments on if the delay should be extended even further and solicits any supplemental information that may help inform a decision regarding the appropriate length of delay.

While the 2024 rule is delayed, the previous rules still apply, and the AHC has worked to get clarification on what that means.

On Friday, March 14, 2025, AHC received the following letter from the USDA regarding the implementation of the Horse Protection Act’s Final Rule.

Following this letter, AHC had submitted questions to the USDA, and their responses are included in this communication.

Be assured that the AHC remains committed to actively engaging with the USDA to seek further advisories and clarifications on the implementation of the Horse Protection Act’s Final Rule.

Link to the USDA APHIS information on the act: https://www.aphis.usda.gov/hpa

Author: Una

Una moved to Colorado in 2007 and started the Colorado Horse Forum as a way to meet other equestrians in the area. Una now rides and competes in dressage. She operates a small dressage horse breeding program in Castle Rock.